Living with chronic pain can be a challenging and debilitating experience. It can affect our daily activities, diminish our quality of life, and limit our ability to fully engage with others.

Fortunately, advancements in the medical field have paved the way for innovative solutions to alleviate chronic pain and improve overall well-being. For example, neuropathic pain is typically relieved by using antidepressant or anti-epileptic medication. However, alternative techniques like peripheral nerve stimulation (PNS) are proving to be more effective in alleviating chronic pain.

PNS is emerging as a promising and innovative approach to combat chronic pain. Read on to learn more about this remarkable technique that provides relief to people suffering from chronic pain.

How Does PNS Work?

Peripheral nerve stimulators are medical devices that interrupt pain signals before they reach the brain. PNS involves a minimally invasive surgical procedure to strategically place a small electrical device near one of the affected peripheral nerves or under the skin in the region of pain.

The electrode generates controlled electrical impulses directed toward the nerve transmitting the pain signals. By effectively overriding the pain signals, PNS helps to minimize their impact on the brain, providing significant relief from chronic pain.

Pre-PNS Procedure Trial Process

Patients who seek PNS treatment go through different evaluations and trials to assess if they are suitable candidates for this procedure. Here are some of the most common steps during a pre-trial process:

Evaluation

A pain management specialist thoroughly assesses patients to determine their eligibility and identify if they are suitable candidates for the procedure.

Pre-Trial Assessment

The patient undergoes imaging tests such as ultrasound to assess the peripheral nerves and surrounding tissues. In this stage, the specialist discusses the PNS surgical procedure, including risks and benefits.

What to Expect During a PNS Surgery

Prior to the surgery, you will meet with your surgeon to discuss the procedure in detail. This is an opportunity to address any questions or concerns you may have. You may also undergo certain medical tests and evaluations to ensure you are a suitable candidate for the surgery.

During PNS surgery, patients are given a local anesthetic so they can remain awake to allow for precise assessment of the electrodes and ensure their accurate placement. 

Peripheral nerve and field stimulation is different from spinal cord stimulation as it places the electrode over the nerve in the specific pain area rather than on the spinal cord where the nerve originates.

The procedure is conducted in two stages:

Placing the Electrode

Under the guidance of X-ray imaging, a neurosurgeon precisely positions an electrode over the targeted pain area. Throughout this stage, specialists conduct tests to determine if the patient feels the stimulation is in the correct location.

After placing the electrode, patients undergo a testing period that typically lasts around a week. During this trial, patients assess the effectiveness of PNS and make an informed decision about their long-term treatment plan.

Moving Towards a Permanent Solution

If patients experience positive results and find significant pain relief during the trial period, they return to the operating room for the placement of a permanent implant. This implant ensures that the benefits of PSN can last on a long-term basis.

Upon completion of the surgery, patients can expect a period of recovery and adjustment as they adjust to the stimulation and evaluate its impact on managing the pain. It's essential to maintain open communication with your healthcare team throughout this journey to address any concerns and ensure that the treatment is tailored to your specific needs.

Benefits of Peripheral Nerve Stimulation

When it comes to managing chronic pain, PNS offers a range of benefits that can significantly improve the quality of life for individuals seeking relief. PNS also has a high success rate with immediate results in most cases. 

It's important to have realistic expectations as this surgical procedure relieves the symptoms of chronic pain but does not represent a cure. Understanding the potential advantages of this treatment can empower patients to make informed decisions about their pain management journey. Here are some of the benefits of PNS:

Significant Relief

During the trial period, approximately two out of three patients can expect to experience substantial relief from their symptoms. This positive outcome often leads to the next step of receiving a permanent implant. In general, four of every 10 patients reported successful pain management with PNS. 

These numbers highlight the potential effectiveness of PNS in alleviating chronic pain.

Non-Invasive Alternative

PNS offers a non-invasive alternative to traditional pain management approaches. Unlike invasive surgeries that involve direct manipulation of the spinal cord, this technique focuses on placing the stimulating device directly over the affected nerve at the targeted pain area. This minimizes the need for extensive surgical procedures and reduces associated risks.

Improved Function and Quality of Life

By effectively blocking the pain signals from reaching the brain, peripheral nerve stimulation can significantly reduce pain intensity and frequency. This reduction in pain allows individuals to regain control over their lives, leading to improved physical function, enhanced mobility, and increased overall well-being. Engaging in daily activities that were once challenging or impossible becomes more achievable, enabling individuals to lead more fulfilling lives.

Personalized Response

PNS can be adjusted and personalized to meet the individual needs of each patient. The electrical impulses can be customized in terms of frequency, intensity, and duration, allowing for personalized pain management strategies tailored to specific conditions and pain thresholds. This adaptability ensures that patients can optimize their treatment and achieve the best possible outcomes.

Adjunct to Other Treatments

PNS can complement other pain management strategies, such as medication and physical therapy. It can be used in addition to these approaches to optimize pain relief and enhance overall outcomes. The flexibility and versatility of peripheral nerve stimulation make it a valuable tool in comprehensive pain management plans.

With proper evaluation, realistic expectations, and expert guidance, patients can explore the potential benefits of this or other innovative treatment options and find a path toward a more pain-free life. If you are dealing with any type of chronic pain, Pain Treatment Centers Of America can provide the expert care and support you need to manage your chronic pain. Call us today at (844) 215-0731 or visit our website to learn more about how we can help you.